Christian Pulisic was superb as the United States Men’s National Team outplayed Jamaica 3-1 to send USMNT into the Nations League semis. The game, with plenty of noise from the crowd, was a different story for this attack-minded USMNT, which fought their way past a strong Jamaican side and earned themselves in the CONCACAF semis.
Pulisic, the “Captain America” for being the face of U.S. soccer, was very instrumental in the victory. He scored two and played a crucial role in the team’s third; showing that he can win any match when it really counts.
His first goal came in the 20th minute, as he coolly slotted in a penalty kick after teammate Gio Reyna was fouled within the box. Pulisic’s composure under stress allowed the US to take the lead early and put Jamaica off on their foot.
He added his second of the night in the 67th minute with a dazzling individual effort. Pulled the ball up midfield, he danced past two defenders and produced a shot that came low into the bottom corner. The goal not only extended the USMNT’s lead but also highlighted Pulisic’s individual skill and confidence.
It was a team effort for a win, but in the middle, Gio Reyna and Weston McKennie surely made the game for the forwards to pick the flow. Reyna’s plays were pure magic – it was his vision that spotted Ricardo Pepi to create a perfect through ball with which to set up his third goal – in the 75th minute – nicely bundled into the spot by Ricardo Pepi.
Defensively, the USMNT remained very solid against Jamaica’s physical game. The pair of center backs Miles Robinson and Chris Richards limited Jamaica’s forward threat, particularly star forward Michail Antonio. Goalkeeper Matt Turner also made a number of crucial saves, including a diving stop in the second half that prevented what would have been an equalizer.
The Reggae Boyz improved their chances, however, with Leon Bailey leveling in the 40th minute when he was on the end of a good header following a defensive error. Jamaica did not sustain possession and broke down the United States’ defense on many occasions.
The Jamaicans’ physicality caused some fouls and disrupted their own rhythm, but the United States dominated the play for much of the game.
With this win, the USMNT advances to the semis of the Nations League. It’s here where it has tougher opposition, compared to Mexico or Canada. Head coach Gregg Berhalter was full of praise for his players, particularly Pulisic and how they led their teammates throughout the match but maintained that focus is key as the team seeks to defend its Nations League title.
For Jamaica, the defeat concludes their Nations League campaign but can be proud of the solid fighting spirit and progress under head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson.
Christian Pulisic was dominant in the Jamaica match and thus, confirmed to be the USMNT team’s leader from the talented squad. With this, the USMNT remains deep and cohesive with a plethora of attacking attacks and therefore clearly a good contender to win the Nations League once again. The fans eagerly await what may unfold next for the USMNT.
